The Bella Twins (aka Nikki Garcia and Brie Garcia) released a statement amid the World Wrestling Entertainment’s sexual assault and trafficking allegations. WWE founder Vince McMahon and Head of Talent Relations, John Laurinaitis, are in the spotlight over the claims.
“We are shocked and disheartened with the recent allegations,” the twins and retired wrestlers shared via Instagram on January 29.
Though they expressed concern over the allegations, the twins’ post drew criticism for not naming either of the accused. John Laurinaitis, who wrestled as “Johnny Ace,” is actually their stepfather.
Too close to home
“It has been a lot to process since we found out this past week, just as you all did,” the twins continued. “This is something we don’t stand for or condone from anyone no matter who they are.”
“We want all women to feel safe and supported in the workplace and in their everyday lives,” they concluded.
Page Six reports that commenters were quick to point out the elephant in the room. “Nikki … Brie … I can’t imagine how you’re feeling but to call them ‘members of the WWE’ like it’s not your literal stepfather … come on,” one follower responded.
Another added, “This is weird af? Ain’t your step father implicated?? Why comment on this….. and with this hollow response especially considering you’re not even with the company anymore. Unless you have something substantial to say you could’ve kept this b.s statement.”
“This post feels purposely misleading to be honest. To say ‘members of the WWE’ distances yourselves from the fact that one of those ‘members’ is your stepfather. This feels like a ‘cover our asses’ post,” commented another.
Some commenters expressed compassion for the twins’ mom, Kathy Laurinaitis, who married John in March 2016. “This is heartbreaking. To think your mom found a good man and then all this comes out, I would be devastated,” a sympathetic poster added.
Comments on the post have since been removed.
Accusations include “sexual slavery”
Janel Grant, a former WWE employee, filed suit against both Vince and John last week. In her suit, Ms. Grant accused them of “sexual slavery.”
She alleged that Vince would have rough sex with her, sometimes resulting in bodily injury. She also claimed that he offered her to other company executives, including John, for their use as a sexual object.
Among other disgusting allegations, Ms. Grant says that Vince and John once took turns holding her down for each other while sexually assaulty her in the WWE offices.
While denying all allegations, Vince stepped down as head of the WWE’s parent company, TKO Group Holdings.
“Ms. Grant’s lawsuit is replete with lies, obscene made-up instances that never occurred, and is a vindictive distortion of the truth,” Vince said in a statement. “I intend to vigorously defend myself against these baseless accusations, and look forward to clearing my name.”
John has yet to release his own statement.
If you or someone you know is affected by any of the issues raised in this story, call the Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-330-0226.
